At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead health & safety initiatives and drive cultural change across a global events business.
- Company: GES, a leading provider in the exhibitions industry focused on sustainability and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days leave, international travel, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety culture in a dynamic and exciting environment.
- Qualifications: NEBOSH certifications and strong understanding of health & safety legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
At GES, safety is more than compliance; it’s a commitment. We are looking for an experienced and influential Head of Health & Safety to lead transformational change across our fast-paced events and exhibitions business. Reporting directly to the Head of Planning, you will play a pivotal leadership role in shaping and embedding a proactive safety culture across multiple locations, venues, and international projects. This is an exceptional opportunity for a confident Health & Safety professional who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys building strong relationships, and is passionate about driving behavioural and cultural change at every level of the organisation.
Who we are: GES is a global full-service provider for the exhibitions industry. We deliver extraordinary event experiences through partnership-driven productions. Our vision is to grow with our customers and create a truly sustainable future for events, introducing innovative technology that opens opportunities for stakeholders to thrive. We want to ensure that the Events Industry continues to thrive in partnership with our people and planet.
The Opportunity: As Head of Health & Safety, you will lead the implementation, development, and continuous improvement of all health and safety systems, processes, and standards across the business. You will influence senior stakeholders, advise leadership teams on emerging legislation and industry trends, and ensure operational excellence across all UK and European activities. You will be highly visible across the organisation, supporting projects, conducting audits, leading investigations, delivering training, and championing best practice to help achieve strategic business goals.
You will be responsible for:
- Leadership & Strategy
- Lead and embed a positive health & safety culture across the business
- Drive behavioural change initiatives focused on prevention and continuous improvement
- Advise senior leadership on regulatory changes, trends, and risk management strategies
- Deliver bi-monthly executive reports to the Senior Vice President
- Represent the business at external forums and industry events
- Compliance & Governance
- Conduct planned and unannounced audits across events, divisions, and locations
- Produce audit reports, action plans, and monitor remedial actions through to completion
- Maintain and improve ISO 45001 compliance standards
- Manage external audit non-conformances and corrective actions
- Oversee fire risk assessment programmes and ensure all statutory reviews are completed
- Ensure all health & safety policies and documentation remain current and compliant
- Incident Management
- Lead accident and incident investigations
- Liaise with insurance partners regarding investigations and outcomes
- Report serious incidents to senior management promptly and effectively
- Training & Development
- Design and deliver internal training programmes including new starter inductions, fire warden training, and accident investigation training
- Support managers with external training recommendations
- Coach leaders and managers to promote safe working practices
- Operational Support
- Provide expert health & safety guidance for new premises, event venues, client requirements, and facilities management
- Support operational teams across the UK and overseas
- Travel throughout the UK and internationally when required
What We are Looking For:
- Essential Qualifications
- NEBOSH General Certificate
- NEBOSH Fire Certificate (or equivalent)
- Strong understanding of UK & European Health & Safety legislation
- Desirable Qualifications
- Relevant vocational qualification
- GCSE Maths & English (or equivalent)
- Essential Experience & Skills
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced operational environment
- Experience within the exhibitions and events industry
- Strong initiative and ability to work independently
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Proven experience influencing leaders and driving cultural change
- Confident conducting audits, investigations, and compliance reviews
Why Join Us?
- Competitive salary based on experience and expertise
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Opportunity to shape safety strategy across an international business
- Diverse and exciting work environment within the events industry
- Career development in a highly visible leadership role
- International travel opportunities
Our Commitment: At GES, we are committed to creating a workplace where safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do.
Equal Opportunities: In compliance with our commitment to diversity and inclusivity, we actively encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law. We firmly believe in equal opportunities for all and strive to create a workplace where every individual can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives and talents. Discrimination of any form will not be tolerated in our recruitment process, and we are dedicated to fostering an environment that values diversity and promotes fairness and equity for all applicants.
If you’re ready to make a lasting impact and lead health & safety excellence across a global events business, we’d love to hear from you.
Head of Health & Safety in Birmingham employer: GES UK & Europe
GES UK & Europe is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Birmingham where creativity meets technology. With a focus on employee well-being, we provide benefits such as hybrid working options, private medical insurance, and generous annual leave, fostering a culture that values work-life balance and personal growth. Join us to be part of a team that thrives on innovation and collaboration in the exciting world of events and exhibitions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Health & Safety in Birmingham
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like GES UK & Europe.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at GES UK & Europe.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like GES UK & Europe, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Health & Safety in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at GES UK & Europe.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at GES UK & Europe.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to GES UK & Europe. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at GES UK & Europe. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at GES UK & Europe
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research GES UK & Europe’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
